Egypt PM resigns days after Sisi begins second term

The move by Prime Minister Sherif Ismail was in keeping with political tradition that the government should resign at the start of a new presidential term. However, Sisi has the prerogative to use the opportunity to reshuffle the Cabinet.

Sisi and Ismail are known to enjoy a close working relationship, with the general-turned-president often publicly praising his prime minister.

Ismail sought medical treatment in Germany late last year. He returned home a month later showing considerable weight loss, some of which he has since regained. The nature of his ailment was never officially disclosed.

Ismail's resignation was announced by presidential spokesman Bassam Radi, who said Sisi has asked the government to stay in office in a caretaker capacity until a new one is formed.

Ismail has been prime minister since September 2015.

Sisi, who as army chief ousted Egypt's first freely-elected President Mohamed Morsi after mass street protests in 2013, won his first term in 2014 with an overwhelming majority of the vote.

His only opponent in elections earlier this year, Moussa Mostafa Moussa, was relatively unknown and a fervent Sisi supporter himself.

All other political contenders were either arrested, sidelined or withdrew.